@oldphart perfect response and exactly what I needed to hear. Had thought the same myself but I'm no expert so just needed to hear it from someone else. Thanks!!
The bike fired up cold and ran fine but it was kinda dismal looking with all the rust

(07-29-2015, 08:04 PM)Primink Wrote: I have the opportunity to purchase an 07 vstar 1100. Bike has just under 4 thousand miles on it and is listed at 3000, however it has quite a bit of rust. It sat outside uncovered near the ocean for I do not know how long. All crome and pipes are pitted and nuts and bolts on most engine components are pretty rusty. My question is how adversely will this affect the bike. It is mechanically in good shape but like I said quite a bit of rust. Any and all input would be greatly appreciated.

Outside near ocean for years...you can expect quite a few issues. I would not be surprised if it needs all new control cables and brake hoses. One or more brake calipers may be frozen with rust. If the forks show any pitting at all on the part that moves (i.e. the "front shocks") they will probably leak if not now then soon after you start riding it again. Same thing for the rear shock.

If it was set up without changing the oil the bearings in the engine may be pitted.

Even if the tires are showing good tread they will probably be dry rotted, requiring replacement.

The carbs will need to be thoroughly cleaned, and perhaps rebuilt.

$4300 is the blue book retail value on that bike - "in excellent condition from a dealer". Frankly, I wouldn't characterize the bike you've described as an "opportunity" at $3k. Sad to say, "project bike" is probably a more accurate description. So, I wouldn't buy it at any price unless I was willing to take on a project...

I ride a 2007 v-star 1300 and just love it. Only 8700 miles on it, and still looks new. Except for back tire..lol Bought it from a minister and I swear he must of just used it to go back and forth to church!! Installed cobra slip ons to give it more of a rumble and that made all the difference in the world. Also changed the handle bars to a more straight out reach. But with being up here in Canada its almost time to put it to bed for the winter. I think it will be a long long winter waiting for that first spring ride.

A v star 650 Custom with J-Slam, extended forks - with the help of this site!!! as well as LOUD sound system, ape-hangers with risers, sissy bar, bib, matt paint, Union Jack pillion seat, new exhausts, and a Union Jack helmet to please Austin Powers :-)